The psychological impacts of trauma are far-reaching, influencing mental health, relationships, and well-being across the lifespan. As awareness of trauma’s effects grows, so does the demand for professionals trained to help individuals heal and recover. If you’re drawn to this meaningful area of work, a graduate degree focused on trauma could be an important step in your academic and professional journey.
This article explores master’s-level programs that offer focused training in trauma psychology and trauma counseling. While “trauma psychology” is often associated with doctoral-level research and clinical practice, many counseling and psychology master’s programs now integrate trauma-informed approaches. These programs can prepare students to support trauma survivors in a range of settings—from community agencies to crisis response teams to schools.
Below, you’ll find insights into the nature of trauma-focused graduate education, key factors to consider when evaluating programs, and a curated list of programs that stand out for their emphasis on trauma. Whether your goals involve clinical work, advocacy, or eventually pursuing a doctorate, this guide is designed to help you take the next informed step.
What Is Trauma Psychology?
Trauma psychology is a specialized area within the broader field of psychology that focuses on understanding and treating the psychological effects of traumatic experiences. This includes events such as abuse, violence, natural disasters, war, and loss—any situation that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope and leaves lasting emotional, cognitive, or physiological impacts.
Professionals in this field study how trauma influences brain function, behavior, relationships, and mental health over time. They may work with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, or secondary trauma related to caregiving roles. Trauma psychologists often rely on evidence-based approaches such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic therapies.
It’s important to distinguish trauma psychology from other mental health disciplines. While trauma-informed care can be part of many helping professions, trauma psychology is grounded in psychological science, clinical research, and therapeutic practice. As such, it overlaps with other types of psychologists, including clinical psychologists, counseling psychologists, and neuropsychologists—but with a distinct focus on trauma as the central organizing framework.
Because trauma psychology is typically research-intensive and clinical in nature, most practicing trauma psychologists hold doctoral degrees. However, some master’s-level programs—especially in counseling—offer trauma-informed tracks or concentrations that allow students to build deep expertise in trauma-related work without the full commitment of a PhD or PsyD.
What to Look for in Trauma-Focused Master’s Programs
When evaluating master’s programs with a trauma focus, it’s important to look beyond just the program title. While some degrees clearly advertise a trauma specialization, others may offer relevant coursework, fieldwork, or faculty expertise under broader umbrellas such as clinical mental health counseling or counseling psychology.
Here are a few key criteria to consider:
- Accreditation
For counseling programs, look for CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) accreditation, which ensures that the curriculum aligns with licensure requirements in most states. For psychology degrees, regional institutional accreditation is essential for credit transferability and graduate school admissions. Be cautious of programs without recognized accreditation. - Specializations, Concentrations, or Electives in Trauma
Some master’s programs in counseling or psychology offer dedicated trauma tracks, while others include trauma-focused electives, crisis intervention courses, or instruction in disaster mental health. These options can deepen your understanding of trauma-related clinical work even if they’re not labeled as formal specializations. - Trauma-Specific Fieldwork or Practicum
Practical experience is a cornerstone of counselor training. Seek programs that offer placements in settings where trauma-informed care is practiced—such as community clinics, crisis centers, or domestic violence shelters. A program’s partnerships with such organizations can strongly influence your hands-on learning. - Trauma-Informed Curriculum and Faculty Expertise
Review course descriptions and faculty bios. Are trauma-related subjects integrated into the required coursework? Do faculty members have clinical or research experience in trauma psychology, disaster response, or related areas? These are indicators of a program’s depth and focus in this specialization. - Program Format and Flexibility
Many prospective students are working professionals or career changers, making format a key concern. Determine whether the program is offered fully online, hybrid, or on-campus—and how that format supports access to high-quality training and clinical supervision. - Alignment with Your Academic Goals
Some programs are designed as terminal degrees that prepare students for counseling licensure, while others serve as stepping stones to doctoral study. If you’re unsure which route to pursue, it may help to review the different types of psychology master’s degree programs to better understand which degree path aligns with your goals in trauma-focused work.
By looking closely at these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to identify master’s programs that offer strong preparation for working with trauma survivors—and that match your professional aspirations.
Trauma Counseling and Psychology Master’s Programs
Trauma-focused graduate programs can take many forms, from full master’s degrees in counseling or psychology to shorter certificate programs designed to deepen trauma expertise for licensed professionals or students in related fields. This section highlights a small but growing number of master’s programs in counseling and psychology that either specialize in trauma or offer a strong trauma-focused component.
Thomas Jefferson University – Community & Trauma Counseling
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling
- Format: Hybrid (combination of on-campus and online instruction)
- Length: Two years full-time (seven consecutive semesters including two pre-fall terms and summer); part-time option available
- Total Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CACREP-accredited in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (8-year accreditation)
- Licensure Preparation: Meets coursework and practicum requirements for LPC and NCC in Pennsylvania and many other states
- Clinical Training: Includes a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship
- Delivery Options: Weekday and evening class formats available
- Concentrations Available:
- Child Trauma & Play Therapy (6 additional credits)
- Trauma, Addictions & Recovery (6 additional credits)
- Art Therapy (9 additional credits; requires additional application materials and a July start)
- Child Trauma & Play Therapy (6 additional credits)
Program Highlights
Thomas Jefferson University’s MS in Community and Trauma Counseling prepares students for trauma-informed clinical mental health practice across a wide range of settings. With a lock-step curriculum and hybrid learning model, the program combines rigorous coursework with immersive clinical training. Students can tailor their education through optional concentrations, and the CACREP-accredited program ensures eligibility for licensure in many states. Faculty support clinical placements, and both full- and part-time formats are designed to accommodate working professionals.
About the University
Thomas Jefferson University, based in Philadelphia, is a nationally recognized institution known for its focus on health sciences, innovation, and interdisciplinary education. The university emphasizes practical experience, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to improving community well-being.
University of Cincinnati – Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling
Program Basics
- Degree: Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling
- Format: Hybrid (weekday and evening classes with both on-campus and online instruction)
- Length: 2 years (full-time)
- Total Credits: 60
- Licensure Preparation: Meets Ohio requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and prepares graduates for the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- Clinical Training: Includes two fieldwork experiences (practicum and internship)
- GRE Requirement: Not required
- Focus Areas: Includes trauma/traumatic stress, multicultural counseling, chemical dependency, and ecological approaches
Program Highlights
The University of Cincinnati’s MA in Mental Health Counseling is designed to prepare trauma-informed professionals for licensure and practice in diverse community settings. The program emphasizes both academic and applied training, including two clinical field placements and access to faculty research in areas such as trauma, multicultural counseling, and chemical dependency. With a flexible hybrid format and full-time or part-time progression options, students receive mentorship from expert faculty while preparing for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Ohio and many other states.
About the University
The University of Cincinnati is a leading public research institution recognized for its innovation and community engagement. As a top-tier urban university, UC combines rigorous academic programs with a strong emphasis on real-world application and research collaboration.
University of Denver – MA in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health
- Degree: Master of Arts in International Disaster Psychology: Trauma and Global Mental Health
- Format: On-campus with hybrid components
- Length: 2 years (7 academic quarters)
- Total Credits: 90 quarter hours
- Clinical Training: Includes local practicum placements and an 8-week international internship
- Licensure Preparation: Meets master’s-level clinical psychology standards; not explicitly tied to a specific licensure path
- Accreditation: Recognized by the American Psychological Association and the National Council of Schools in Professional Psychology for innovative graduate training
- Specialization Areas: Trauma interventions, disaster mental health, global mental health, crisis intervention, gender-based violence, grief and loss, intercultural practice
Program Highlights
The MA in International Disaster Psychology at the University of Denver is a first-of-its-kind program that prepares students to work with trauma-affected populations in global and domestic settings. Integrating rigorous clinical psychology coursework with specialized training in trauma and global mental health, the program emphasizes culturally responsive, community-based care. Students engage in both local practicum experiences and an international internship, where they support organizations responding to conflict, disaster, displacement, and systemic inequality.
About the University
The University of Denver is a private research university known for its commitment to social justice, interdisciplinary innovation, and community impact. Its Graduate School of Professional Psychology is nationally recognized for leading-edge programs in trauma, mental health, and global engagement.
Trauma-Focused Graduate Certificate Programs
In addition to full-length graduate degrees, some universities offer trauma-focused certificate programs. These shorter offerings—often available online—can help mental health professionals, educators, or graduate students build targeted knowledge in trauma-informed care or crisis response. While certificates typically don’t lead to licensure on their own, they may complement an existing counseling degree or provide continuing education for licensed clinicians.
East Carolina University – Certificate in Military and Civilian Trauma Studies
Program Basics
- Credential: Graduate Certificate in Military and Civilian Trauma Studies
- Format: Online
- Length: 12 semester hours (4 courses)
- Start Terms: Fall and Spring
- Application Deadlines: May 1 (Fall), October 15 (Spring)
- Admission Requirements: 2.7 GPA; statement of purpose; resume; official transcripts
- Eligibility: Open to degree-seeking or non-degree graduate students
Program Highlights
East Carolina University’s online Certificate in Military and Civilian Trauma Studies provides specialized training for counseling professionals who work with trauma-affected populations, including veterans, active military, and civilians impacted by events such as abuse, natural disasters, or violence. With coursework covering military and trauma counseling, civilian trauma, and psychosocial disability, the program emphasizes practical skills and cultural competency. This flexible, part-time certificate is designed to enhance professional practice across a variety of clinical and community settings.
About the University
East Carolina University is a public research university in Greenville, North Carolina, known for its leadership in health sciences and community-focused academic programs. ECU emphasizes accessible, applied education and is committed to preparing students for careers that meet regional and national workforce needs.
Elizabethtown College – Online Graduate Certificate in Trauma Informed Practice
Program Basics
- Credential: Graduate Certificate in Trauma Informed Practice
- Format: Online
- Length: 12 credits; can be completed in one year or less
- Cost: $525 per credit
- Stackable Credits: Applicable toward Etown’s M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction and Doctorate of Occupational Therapy
- Eligibility: Open to professionals with a bachelor’s degree; enhances Level I or II Pennsylvania teaching certification with PDE endorsement in Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness of PreK–12 Students
Program Highlights
Elizabethtown College’s online Graduate Certificate in Trauma Informed Practice equips professionals with essential tools to support children and families affected by trauma. Tailored for educators, healthcare workers, and human services professionals, the program emphasizes practical strategies for trauma-sensitive practice and cross-disciplinary collaboration. With coursework aligned to Pennsylvania’s Common Ground Framework, students gain the skills to advocate for systemic change and implement trauma-informed approaches in diverse professional settings.
About the University
Elizabethtown College is a private institution in Pennsylvania known for its commitment to service, ethical leadership, and community impact. Its School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS) focuses on flexible, career-relevant education for adult learners across health, education, and human services fields.
These programs vary in structure, delivery, and emphasis, but all provide opportunities for students to build skills relevant to working with trauma survivors in clinical and community settings. Whether your goal is to become a licensed counselor, advocate, or mental health practitioner, these programs can help lay the academic and practical foundation for trauma-informed work.
Career Paths for Graduates
A master’s degree in trauma counseling or psychology can lead to meaningful work in a range of professional settings. Graduates often find roles in:
- Community mental health centers
- Schools and universities
- Hospitals and crisis response teams
- Nonprofit and advocacy organizations
- Domestic violence shelters or substance use recovery programs
- Disaster response or humanitarian relief organizations
Common job titles may include:
- Trauma counselor
- Clinical mental health counselor
- Licensed professional counselor (LPC)
- Case manager
- Crisis intervention specialist
- Behavioral health therapist
It’s important to note that most of these positions require state licensure, which typically involves completing a qualifying graduate program, passing one or more licensing exams, and completing a specified number of postgraduate supervised clinical hours. Licensing titles and requirements vary by state, so students should always check their state’s counseling board for up-to-date information.
For those interested in psychology-focused careers in research or academia, a master’s degree may serve as a stepping stone to doctoral study. Roles such as trauma psychologist, clinical researcher, or academic faculty member almost always require a PhD or PsyD and licensure as a psychologist.
Salary Expectations for Trauma-Focused Professionals
For students pursuing trauma-informed careers, salary potential depends heavily on licensure, education level, and work setting. While a master’s degree can qualify graduates for counseling roles, higher salaries are often associated with doctoral training or supervisory positions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for mental health counselors was $53,710 as of May 2023. Counselors with trauma-specific training may work in private practice, residential treatment centers, schools, or nonprofit organizations—settings where salaries can vary widely based on funding and geographic location.
For those who pursue licensure as marriage and family therapists (MFTs)—another common pathway among trauma-focused graduates—the median annual wage was $58,510 in 2023. MFTs who specialize in trauma may work with couples or families navigating the aftermath of abuse, violence, or loss.
While many trauma psychology roles are non-clinical or counseling-focused, some students eventually pursue doctoral degrees and become licensed psychologists. The median wage for clinical and counseling psychologists was $96,100 in 2023, though this career path generally requires a PhD or PsyD and several years of supervised experience.
It’s important to recognize that specialized training in trauma doesn’t always result in a salary premium by itself. However, trauma expertise may make candidates more competitive for in-demand roles, especially in healthcare systems, community mental health agencies, and crisis response organizations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
When exploring master’s programs with a trauma focus, it’s essential to consider how well each program aligns with your goals, interests, and long-term plans. While many counseling and psychology programs incorporate trauma-informed training, the depth, structure, and format can vary widely.
- Clarify your professional goals. Are you aiming to become a licensed mental health counselor? Do you hope to eventually pursue a doctorate in psychology? Programs designed for licensure will differ from those intended as academic stepping stones.
- Verify licensure eligibility. If your goal is to practice as a counselor or therapist, confirm whether the program meets educational requirements for licensure in your state (e.g., LPC, LPCC, LMHC, or MFT). This information should be clearly stated on each program’s website.
- Review faculty expertise and research opportunities. Look for faculty members with backgrounds in trauma psychology, trauma counseling, or related fields. Their work can influence the curriculum, mentorship opportunities, and practicum placement options.
- Assess clinical and field placement support. Some programs offer robust practicum coordination and partnerships with trauma-informed agencies. This is especially important for students pursuing licensure who need supervised experience.
- Consider program format and flexibility. Online and hybrid programs can offer greater accessibility, but ensure that the structure supports your learning style and professional needs. Ask whether internships or residencies are required and how they’re arranged for distance learners.
- Talk to students or alumni. Whenever possible, connect with current or former students to get insight into the program’s strengths and challenges—particularly regarding trauma preparation and job placement support.
Choosing the right trauma-focused master’s program is more than finding a name-brand school or low tuition rate. It’s about identifying a supportive environment where you can build the skills, connections, and credentials needed to serve others effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you become a trauma psychologist with a master’s?
Usually not. The title trauma psychologist generally requires a doctoral degree—typically a PhD or PsyD in clinical or counseling psychology—as well as licensure as a psychologist. While some master’s-level programs offer trauma-focused coursework or fieldwork, becoming a licensed psychologist requires a more advanced credential.
Can I become a licensed counselor with one of these programs?
Yes, many trauma-focused master’s programs—particularly those in clinical mental health counseling or marriage and family therapy—are designed to meet the educational requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or similar credential. Licensing requirements vary by state and typically include supervised post-graduate hours.
Are online trauma-focused master’s programs available?
Yes. Some programs offer fully online or hybrid options, often with the same curriculum and faculty as their on-campus counterparts. Online programs may be particularly appealing to working professionals or those seeking greater flexibility. However, keep in mind that practicum and internship experiences must still be completed in person.
Is trauma psychology different from clinical psychology?
Yes. Trauma psychology is a specialization within the broader field of clinical psychology that focuses specifically on the mental and emotional effects of trauma, such as PTSD, complex trauma, and crisis response. At the master’s level, trauma is typically addressed within counseling or clinical mental health programs rather than as a stand-alone psychology degree.
Considering Your Next Steps
Pursuing a master’s degree in trauma psychology or trauma counseling is a meaningful path—but it’s also a significant commitment. Before applying, take time to reflect on your professional goals. Are you hoping to work directly with trauma survivors? Do you see yourself in a clinical counseling role, or are you more drawn to advocacy, education, or research?
If your primary interest lies in providing trauma-informed therapy, a CACREP-accredited master’s in clinical mental health counseling with a trauma specialization may be the right fit. These programs are often structured to meet licensure requirements and include hands-on training through supervised internships. If your goals are more academic or research-oriented, consider whether a doctoral program might be necessary down the line.
As you explore programs, look beyond tuition and curriculum alone. Reach out to admissions counselors or faculty members. Ask about practicum support, mentorship opportunities, and graduate outcomes. Connect with current students or alumni to get an honest perspective on their experience.
Finally, use the information in this guide as a foundation—but not the final word. Choosing a graduate program is deeply personal, and the best option for you will align with your values, your career vision, and your capacity to grow as a professional in the field of trauma care.
